A conflict event at HOU between a departing air carrier and a helicopter was described by both the Local Controller and the air carrier Pilot; versions differing but indicating likely confusions regarding the helicopters ATC instructions.
Synopsis
A conflict event at HOU between a departing air carrier and a helicopter was described by both the Local Controller and the air carrier Pilot; versions differing but indicating likely confusions regarding the helicopters ATC instructions.
Narrative
I cleared Air Carrier X for take off on Runway 12R. As Air Carrier X started his takeoff roll; Helicopter Y called from the south ramp of the airport; for a northwest (Cougar) Departure. I anticipated Helicopter Y would pass behind the already rolling Air Carrier X; so I gave Helicopter Y no restrictions across the airfield for a northwest departure. Instead; Helicopter Y paralleled the departing aircraft southeast bound; then turned right to go to the north and begin his Cougar Departure. I maintained visual separation between both aircraft the entire time. Air Carrier X then made a comment that he had to 'dip' to avoid the helicopter. Air Carrier X did not mention anything about a near mid-air on frequency. Later in the day; the FSDO called the Tower Supervisor to let him know that Air Carrier X had filed a near mid-air. The Tower Supervisor pulled the audio tapes and ASDE-X replay of the event and informed me no separation was lost between Air Carrier X and the helicopter. Recommendation; I will always restrict helicopters when fixed wing operations are in progress.
Second reporter narrative
We were cleared for takeoff on Runway 12R. I heard a helicopter also being cleared for takeoff somewhere else at the airport. At about the V1 call; I saw the helicopter at my right; 1 o'clock as he flew southeast down Taxiway November at about 50' off the ground. His flight path was in the same direction as ours; but offset to the right several hundred feet. It appeared we would fly past him soon after rotation. However; just as I began to rotate; he started a left turn into our flight path. To avoid hitting him; I made a slow rotation and after liftoff kept us airborne just a few feet off the ground so that we would fly under him. This was my only option to avoid hitting him. Just before we flew under him; he saw us and made a sharp; hard turn back to the right. This turn prevented him from flying directly over us. I estimate we missed him by about 50' vertically and 100'-200' horizontally. Listening to the conversation between him and the Tower Controller after we passed him; it sounded like there was confusion between them about what direction he was supposed to head after his takeoff.
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.